Emily Dickinson

Only a Shrine, but Mine

poem 918

Only a Shrine, but Mine - meaning Summary

Private Shrine to Madonna

The speaker presents a small, private devotion to the Madonna, contrasting a personal taper with the public worship she receives. Addressing the figure as intimate confidante, the speaker acknowledges that the Madonna knows every sorrow and asks not for miracles but for the quieter grace that heals the next wound. The tone is humble and familiar, emphasizing trust and the desire for ongoing consolation rather than spectacle.

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Only a Shrine, but Mine I made the Taper shine Madonna dim, to whom all Feet may come, Regard a Nun Thou knowest every Woe Needless to tell thee so But can’st thou do The Grace next to it heal? That looks a harder skill to us Still just as easy, if it be thy Will To thee Grant me Thou knowest, though, so Why tell thee?

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